7 plus lens - only uses one

[KayFisher]

So I tried to put my old clip on macro adaptor on the iPhone 7 plus to see if it would work.
It does but... I found only the lens closest to the edge ever takes pictures. I can cover the inner most lens with my finger and still select 1X or 2X zoom and the camera works fine. What is up with that?

 

[chabig]

Somehow (probably based on ability to focus) it seems to know the range to your subject. Point the camera across the room in 2X and you'll see your finger as you move it in front of the telephoto lens. Up close, the telephoto lens doesn't do anything and it's all digital zoom.

 

[KayFisher]

Thanks - that was the correct answer. Sure had me confused!